The moment you slice into these pinwheels and unveil their spiral layers, the aroma of garlic and cream cheese dances in the air, inviting all to gather round. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the puff pastry enveloping a creamy, savory filling, perfectly balanced with the earthiness of spinach and a hint of Parmesan. Whether for a party, game day, or a cozy night in, these bite-sized delights are sure to brighten up any occasion.
What makes this recipe shine
This recipe doesn’t just deliver on flavor it’s a testament to simplicity and joy in cooking. The combination of cream cheese, spinach, and rich Parmesan melds together harmoniously, resulting in a dip that retains its creaminess even after baking. The puff pastry adds a satisfying crunch, creating a wonderful textural contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a snack, and the best part? You can whip it up in no time. As one enthusiastic home cook said,
“These pinwheels were a hit at our gathering! The creamy filling and flaky pastry had everyone asking for the recipe.”
How this dish comes together
Creating these spinach dip pinwheels is as enjoyable as eating them. Start by preparing your filling, ensuring the spinach is adequately squeezed to eliminate excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy outcome. Next, roll the mixture in a chilled sheet of puff pastry, creating a tight log that’s easy to slice. Chilling is key here, as it firms up the log, making those beautiful rounds easier to cut. They’ll puff up beautifully in the oven, transforming into golden-brown treats bursting with flavor.
What you’ll need
Gather your items:
- 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (10 oz) – thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz) – softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- pinch red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 sheet puff pastry – thawed but still cold
- 1 egg – for brushing
Be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the taste significantly compared to pre-packaged grated cheeses.
How to cook it
Step 1: Grab a bowl and add the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until it’s silky and well-combined. Now take the thawed spinach, give it a good squeeze to remove all excess moisture, and fold it into the mixture until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Lightly flour your counter and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Spread the spinach mixture all over the sheet but leave one long edge clear for sealing later. Carefully roll it tightly, like a jelly roll, ensuring no filling escapes.
Step 3: Wrap the log in plastic wrap and transfer it to the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up, allowing for better slicing. During this time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Once chilled, remove the log from the fridge and slice it into half-inch rounds. Arrange the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water and brush the mixture over the top of each pinwheel for that beautiful golden finish. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden.
Serving ideas
These pinwheels shine beautifully on a platter, perhaps sprinkled with some extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for flair. Consider pairing them with a light dip, such as a yogurt-based ranch, or serving alongside a fresh salad for a more substantial meal. Their flaky texture and rich, creamy filling are perfect with a glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling beverage.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maximize freshness, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. You can also freeze them before baking; simply slice and freeze the log, then when you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened; this makes mixing effortless and ensures a smooth filling.
- When rolling the puff pastry, keep it as tight as possible to prevent air pockets.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it is crucial for maintaining shape during baking.
Ways to customize it
Feel free to make this recipe your own! You can add in ingredients like cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or substitute the spinach with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for a different twist. For a bit of zest, incorporating a squeeze of lemon or some fresh herbs like dill or basil can elevate the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Make sure to sauté the fresh spinach first to reduce its moisture content before mixing it into the filling.
Q: Can these pinwheels be made a day in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the log up to a day ahead and store it wrapped in the refrigerator. Just slice and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What if I don’t have puff pastry?
A: You could also use crescent roll dough or a tortilla wrap for a different texture and flavor, though the baking time may vary.
Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these delicious spinach dip pinwheels. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the joy of cooking!
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Spinach Dip Pinwheels
These spinach dip pinwheels combine creamy filling and flaky pastry for an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (10 oz) – thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz) – softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 sheet puff pastry – thawed
- 1 egg – for brushing
Instructions
- Mix softened cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. Fold in thawed spinach.
- Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface until 1/8 inch thick. Spread spinach mixture leaving one edge clear.
- Tightly roll the pastry and filling into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the chilled log into half-inch rounds and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the pinwheels. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffed.
Notes
Ensure spinach is well-squeezed to avoid sogginess. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
